"People tend to think about people, but your pet needs to be taken care of also," said Lisa Mendheim, spokeswoman for Broward County Animal Care and Adoption. "You don't want to be short-handed on pet food and cat litter. It the stores are closed, you're in a bind."

A good "pet survival kit" should be made of waterproof plastic material and include the following items:

Enough food, bottled water and medication to last for a week; pet crate or carrier; extra collar and leash; copies of your pet's medical records and vet's phone number; rabies certificate and county license information; tattoo or microchip numbers; photo of you and your pet to help prove the pet is yours; food and water bowls; cleaning supplies and cat litter.

Experts also say your pet should not be left home alone with a storm on the way. If you're evacuating, bring your pets with you.

Figure out now whether you will stay with a relative, go to a pet-friendly emergency shelter or stay at a hotel that welcomes pets. If you plan on boarding your pet, most facilities require them to be up-to-date on vaccinations.